From an Awatere Valley site even further inland and higher than its stablemate (below), the 2009 vintage was matured in French oak barriques (17 per cent new). Weighty and dark, it is vibrantly fruity, with rich plum/spice flavours, deliciously concentrated, savoury and supple. The 2010 (tasted prior to bottling, and so not rated) is still very youthful, with vibrant, plummy, spicy, toasty flavours, showing good complexity and roundness.

Buyer's Guide to New Zealand Wines

Michael Cooper (2009 Vintage) says

From an Awatere Valley site even further inland and higher than its stablemate (below), the 2009 vintage was matured in French oak barriques (17 per cent new). Weighty and dark, it is vibrantly fruity, with rich plum/spice flavours, deliciously concentrated, savoury and supple. The 2010 (tasted prior to bottling, and so not rated) is still very youthful, with vibrant, plummy, spicy, toasty flavours, showing good complexity and roundness.

Buyer's Guide to New Zealand Wines

Michael Cooper (2008 Vintage) says

Buyer's Guide to New Zealand Wines

Nick Stock (2007 Vintage) says

This is in the very top league of Marlborough pinot. Dark cherry red and packing plenty of rich, ripe fruits, this is commanding, brooding, spicy and vibrant. There's ripe cherry and plum fruit and super-fine, silken tannins that float long through the finish. Concentration meets poise and elegance.

The Penguin Good Australian Wine Guide 2010 2009

96

Michael Cooper (2007 Vintage) says

Buyer's Guide to New Zealand Wines

Michael Cooper (2006 Vintage) says

Buyer's Guide to New Zealand Wines

Michael Cooper (2005 Vintage) says

Buyer's Guide to New Zealand Wines

Michael Cooper (2002 Vintage) says

The densely coloured 2002 vintage was grown in the Awatere Valley and matured for nine months in French oak barriques (60 per cent new). Supple and crammed with plum, spice and herb flavours, it's a generous, complex and voluptuous Marlborough wine that flows across the palate to a rich, silky-smooth finish.